NSA hacking tools will find their way to criminals eventually

Antone Gonsalves |
Jan. 17, 2014

The U.S. National Security Agency has reportedly developed technology to commandeer computers even when they are off the Internet, and security experts warn it's only a matter of time before similar tools become part of cybercriminals' toolbox.

Some NSA technology has already found its way into criminal circles. The agency reportedly developed malware used to destroy centrifuges in Iranian nuclear facilities in 2010, The Times reported. The NSA used its radio technology for two years to gather information on the facilities in preparation for the attack.

Due to a technical error, the malware, later called Stuxnet, was discovered on the Internet and dissected by security researchers.

NSA gadgets that seem to come from a James Bond film will take years to find their way into criminal circles. Therefore, companies should focus today on keeping up with the less dramatic updates that occur regularly to hackers' malware and exploit kits.

"More sophisticated spying techniques and malicious attacks continue to be developed and organizations need to re-examine their critical applications and security processes to ensure that sensitive information and systems are protected," Sam Erdheim, senior security strategist for network security company AlgoSec, said.